Secret
Being that I’ve had serious doubts about being able to actually complete this trip, I felt if I made it for two days, I would be somewhat successful. But, I’ve come this far, so I feel awesome about how things have gone. Today though, I was done.
Plan vs reality
My original plan did not involve getting rained on every single day. It also didn’t involve “sleeping” in a tent that wasn’t waterproof. Certainly my plan DID involve some rain, some cold, and some discomfort, but not like this.
From Arkansas, the plan was to drive through Louisiana to Natchez, MS, then follow the Natchez Trace all the way to Florence, AL and stay with a bunk a biker. The weather was coming through the Gulf, straight up Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, and everywhere else even remotely close. I was exhausted, cold, and wet. I could not do it anymore.
Map
I pulled out some maps while talking to my BFG. He was looking at a weather map, while I looked at potential places to go. He told me my only way was to head straight east and get to Mississippi. Once I got there, he said the weather would clear up. But, it was going to be awful getting there. He said the best way from where I was would be to jump on the Interstate and blast for Vicksburg. If I could make it there, the weather should ease up.
You might wonder what I was doing looking at maps and talking on the phone in a downpour. Well, I had a job interview and at the time I was supposed to be in the interview, the only place I could find that was sheltered and fairly quiet was the city hall in West Monroe, Louisiana. I parked Lucille and hung out under the overhang while being interviewed and while talking to Glenn.
Adapting is changing
I made a change of plans. I would head to Vicksburg and catch the Natchez Trace about 67 miles from the beginning. It was a bummer, but it was like a typhoon, and it just really wasn’t safe or fun to ride through. I’m glad I learned to ride in the Phillipines! I got pretty good at riding in the rain.
A small taste of what it was like all day.
Drying out
I got a hotel in Vicksburg, MS. It wasn’t a nice place, but that’s okay because I really wanted to dry my gear and didn’t want to trash a nice room.
My stuff at up and drying in the room.
I was hoping to stay with a bunk a biker in Florence, AL, but they never got back to me. I reached out to another in southern Tennessee, but no response there either. I looked at some “primitive” camping in Florence, but it didn’t look like a place I’d be able to get Lucille in and out of, so I would have to hotel it. Dang. I’d look for a place tomorrow.
The “nice” weather in Vicksburg!
Bummer Deb! I can’t believe you’re having so much rain! I hope you get more sunny skies ahead!!
I really am over it. I didn’t expect this at all at this time of year! But, it’s an adventure!
Deb, you’re a Rockstar!!! Hang in there! I hope the weather gets better for you!
I’m hanging, but I feel like I’m close to not hanging! I how it turns around soon but at least I’m not bored!
An adventure, yes, but fun, no. Still and all, you’ve braved it thus far, so hopefully (HOPEFULLY) the weather will improve. My sis in Louisiana has had so much rain this year, it’s almost criminal. (And we can’t get a drop here, sigh) I sure hope the rain stops, the sun shines, and Lucille and Deb can enjoy the adventure!
At least I’m getting to do something cool! And I’m seeing stuff, just not as much as I’d like. I really wish we could send some of this water home. Seems weird there’s so much of it here and none of it there.
I know, right?
You’re amazing! I’ve always been super impressed that you would take on this adventure. Hope it starts to turn around for you.
Thanks, Cam! I don’t feel amazing. Right now I’m feeling, I don’t know, maybe stupid, for continuing on. I keep hoping for sunnier days!
Hey Deb!
Don’t lie to us, you love every minute. Yes being wet sucks, I imagine it,s ten times worse on a bike. But you love the challenges life throws at you, you thrive in that environment. You would not be the amazing woman you are today if you didn’t. I do hope the weather gets better for you, keep the rubber down and get home safe so we can all hear the crazy stories!
It sucks, but I am having fun! And I’m doing something I think is cool. I could just really use a break though!
Deb:
As long as I’ve known you, (getting close to 39 years,) you have always taken on challenges and overcome obstacles. Not always fun, but determination carried you forward. You’ve got this!!!!!!!
Linda
I WILL get through it, but it isn’t easy sometimes for sure. Then again, I wouldn’t be who I am if it had been easy. I love you so much and I’m glad I’ve always got you.